Bronze Likeness for Daniel Andrews Takes Shape
Work has commenced on a statue intended to memorialise former Victorian premier Daniel Andrews. The commissioned artwork, pegged at a cost of $134,000, will be installed at Treasury Place. This move continues a government practice of honouring long-serving leaders.
The commission has gone to Meridian Sculpture, a firm based in Fitzroy. This company has previously been responsible for creating likenesses of other former Victorian premiers, including John Cain Jr, Rupert Hamer, Henry Bolte, and Albert Dunstan. They have also sculpted figures from Victoria's cultural landscape, such as music identity Michael Gudinski.
Andrews, who served as premier for over 3,000 days, holds the distinction of being the longest-serving Labor premier in Victoria's history. He is also the fourth-longest-serving premier overall.
Public Reactions Mixed
The decision to erect the statue has not met with universal approval. Some public figures and commentators have voiced criticism. Jacqui Felgate, speaking on 3AW Drive, suggested that other individuals might be "more worthy" of such an honour. She also remarked on the timing of the announcement, deeming it "the worst possible timing" given current circumstances.
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A Victorian government spokesperson defended the initiative, stating that Andrews "led Victoria through some of its toughest moments and never stopped fighting for working people." However, such statements have not quelled all dissent, with some critics expressing strong opposition, with one anonymous source quoted as saying the state has been "bankrupted" and questioning the expenditure.
Background to the Commemoration
The project for a statue honouring Daniel Andrews was reportedly announced on the anniversary of his resignation. Statues of this nature are typically commissioned by the government that comes into power following a premier's departure from office. The exact timeline for the statue's installation is to be finalised as work progresses.
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